Library Journal

William H. Wiese, Iowa State Univ. Lib., Ames

Logsdon (The Contrary Farmer) mixes philosophy, opinion, farming specifics, and practical advice in this provocative look at the age-old practice of grassland, or pasture, farming. The author describes this method--in which cattle, sheep, and other livestock are managed in paddocks (plots) of bluegrass, clover, alfalfa, and other mixes of grasses and legumes--and even discusses pasturing horses, mules, and donkeys, a healthy alternative to the common small, manure-filled shed with a barren dirt lot. Logsdon relates experiences from his small Ohio farm and tells the stories of other successful grass-farming operations. For urban refugees in the country, he stresses the ease with which pasture farming can be accomplished on a small acreage with only a few animals and demonstrates how well it fits in with traditional gardening and lawn care. Recommended for public and academic libraries where there is an interest in back-to-the-land books.

Library Journal
October 1, 2004